Saqlain likely to miss Indian tour

Saqlain Mushtaq is unlikely to be considered for the Pakistan squad to tour India after failing to recover in time from knee surgery. Saqlain, whose last Test appearance produced unflattering figures of 1 for 204 against India at Multan last year, is still on crutches, and has little or no chance of getting games under his belt before the squad is chosen on February 18.

Saqlain enjoyed a wonderful tour in 1999, when his offspin was the difference between the two teams in an epic Chennai Test decided by his dismissal of Sachin Tendulkar. But despite an impressive haul of 208 wickets in his 49 Test, Saqlain has been on the periphery in recent seasons, with Danish Kaneria now firmly ensconced as the premier slow bowler.

Another to miss out on the Indian experience will be Umar Gul, whose intelligent use of swing and seam won Pakistan the Lahore Test against India last year. Gul broke down during that game and was subsequently diagnosed with three stress fractures in his spine. South African specialists, who have been monitoring his progress, don't expect to have a clear picture until at least June.

In Saqlain's absence, the likes of Shahid Afridi - who was in great form in the VB series and who made a thrilling Test hundred at Kolkata in 1999 - might come into contention to supplement the spin-bowling component.

There are also injury concerns over Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Sami, neither of who played a part in Pakistan's improved displays at the denouement of the VB Series in Australia. However, both should be fit to face India, if selected.